Introduction

Trekking to Everest Base Camp can be a stiff challenge for anyone, no matter what age but we realise that as the years go by, actually achieving the goal can become more of a challenge for older people. This trek is designed for people who are generally older or perhaps have a minor disability, but nevertheless would like to share in “The Everest Base Camp Experience” in a more leisurely way.The itinerary below has been extended by five days, to allow more time on the trail, compared to our normal E.B.C. itinerary.

The Everest Base Camp trek takes you right into the heart of the great Himalayas and its hardy people, with awe-inspiring views of many of the worlds highest and most beautiful mountains. Couple this with some truly fascinating Sherpa villages, along with some of the world’s highest Buddhist monasteries and the highest peaks on Earth, it is no wonder it is described as a ‘once in a lifetime’ opportunity.

It has taken millions of years and unimaginably powerful forces to create this mountain range, the Himalayas are literally the result of what happens when two continents collide. It changed the global climate system at the time and still shapes the global climate around it today.The journey starts with an unforgettable flight from Kathmandu to the mountain airstrip at Lukla in the lap of the Himalayas. The trail takes you through Sherpa villages, past cultivated fields we follow the Dudh Kosi and climb up to Namche Bazaar.

Once above the tree-line the scenery is stark but in some ways more spectacular. The monastery at Thyangboche is a photographer’s paradise, set against the backdrop of Ama Dablam, Everest and other huge snow-capped peaks, it stands peacefully serene.The vivid colors of Thyangboche only add to a sense of something almost sureal in this area. With plenty of  time for acclimatization en route we journey on to our goal Everest Base Camp, on the Khumbu Glacier.Once there you realize that the hard work and effort was nothing compared to the rewards gained from being among-st the highest mountains on earth.

Important Note and Optional Activities

All the trekking itineraries are flexible and can be revised in order to best meet your requirements i.e. your time, interests etc. Please make contact with us if you have any special requirements or interest.

Dingboche: A Perfect Rest Stop for Everest Trekkers
Dingboche is more than just a stop along the way to Everest Base Camp but a rest and acclimatization point where trekkers can stock up for the higher altitude of the Himalayas. This quiet Sherpa village at 4,410 meters above sea level will successfully allow your body to get acquainted with the much-thinner air, offering some of the most impressive views in the area.

Dingboche Unique Climate and Weather
As Dingboche is situated in the high Himalayas, it experiences exclusive climatic and meteorological conditions throughout the year. Therefore, the site epitomizes a place where trekkers need to be geared up against shifting conditions:.

Spring-March to May: This is considered the ideal time for trekking. The temperature ranges from 10°C to 15° C during the daytime, but even then, it falls to as low as below 0° C at night. The clear skies and moderate temperature make it perfect for time trekking.

Autumn (September-November): In many ways, autumn follows a similar pattern to spring, with crisp, clear days and temperature fluctuations falling between 5°C to 12°C. While daytime trekking is pleasant, the nighttime can get bitterly cold, even as low as -5°C. Autumn also has the clearest visibility during the year with impressive views of the surrounding mountains.

Winter (December-February): During this time, Dingboche is very cold; often at night, the temperature goes below -10°C. During that time, daytime usually grows from -2 to 4°C, and that makes walking difficult, especially for the people who are sensitive to extreme cold.

Monsoon (June – August): The monsoon falls in Dingboche during the summer months. The heavy rainfall makes the trials slippery and highly vulnerable to landslides. Although the day temperature lies between 5-15 degrees Celsius, this is not a favorable time to visit here due to wet trails and poor visibility.

Dingboche Accommodation
While Dingboche has basic facilities, the accommodation is simple but comfortable. It has a number of teahouses-local lodges that offer food and shelter to trekkers during their stay.

The teahouses in Dingboche have shared rooms with bunk beds. The rooms are very simple but have blankets to help you protect yourself from the cold mountain nights.
Most of them have shared restrooms, although a few will be western-style toilets for convenience.
Most of them have a hot meal that is served in a large dining room. Common food includes Dal Bhat, Sherpa stew, and yak cheese. All are thick and heavy but they prepare the body for the hard, challenging trek ahead.
A few of them do have Wi-Fi, but it is slow and not very reliable since the place is somewhat remote. Still, this provides a great opportunity for trekkers to take a much-needed digital detox and really soak in the serenity of it all.

Most teahouses have charging stations-for a small fee-but note that most of Dingboche’s electricity is powered by solar panels, hence is not always available.
Although there aren’t fancy luxury hotels in Dingboche, it is a very friendly and warm place to be after a whole day of trekking due to the hospitality of Sherpa people and the warmth of teahouses.

Acclimatization Activities
The Dingboche village is one of the most important stops needed for acclimatization for the trekkers. Acclimatization is a must before climbing even higher. Given below are short treks around Dingboche, which would help trekkers get used to the thin air and simultaneously give striking views:

Nangkartshang Peak: This is a very popular acclimatization hike from Dingboche. Actually, this hike up to Nangkartshang Peak is a great 5-6 hour trek from the village of Dingboche, with amazing panoramic views of Everest, Ama Dablam, Makalu, and Lhotse from the summit—a well-rewarding sight for those making the effort.

Chukhung Valley & Chukhung Ri: The Chukhung Valley is a perfect site for those trekkers who seek softer acclimatization treks. From here, trekkers can head to Chukhung Ri, a non-technical peak at 5,550 meters that offers spectacular views of the Himalayan giants.

These hikes also help gain stamina, and your body gets used to the altitude before you head further into the other stages of the trek. This process helps minimize the risks related to altitude sickness.

Best Time to Visit Dingboche
The best time for trekkers to visit Dingboche-a place that offers clear skies and moderate temperatures-would be in spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). During these seasons, the following are the most favorable weather conditions:

With flowers in bloom, skies clear as crystal, and pleasant temperatures, spring is a great time to visit. The autumn brings crisp cool air with vibrant colors and the best views of the mountains- added bonus: it has the least chance of rainfall. Whereas, winter and monsoon months are to be avoided with their infamously bad weather, freezing temperatures, risk of rainfall, and even landslides.

Dingboche: A Trekker Essential to Make
Beyond its function as an acclimatization stop, Dingboche has a special kind of charm, making it an unavoidable place on a trekker’s schedule to Everest Base Camp. This beautiful Sherpa village lies nestled among some of the highest peaks in the world; hence, it’s both the natural beauty and cultural richness together.

It could be a day basking in the views of Ama Dablam or as an extra day hike to Nangkartshang Peak; Dingboche is the perfect place to rest for recovery for higher altitude Himalayas. The village is a cultural powerhouse where trekkers get warmth and hospitality from the Sherpa people. It’s also about learning traditions, spirituality, and the way of life of the people.
Being a strategic point along the trek, Dingboche ensures trekkers get all the time and opportunity for acclimatization prior to heading towards Lobuche or Everest Base Camp.
With its stunning views, simple comforts, and vital role in the trek, Dingboche is a trekker’s paradise-a place not to be missed in the success and enjoyment of any Everest adventure.

Dingboche is not just one of those halts on the road to Everest but, in itself, is a major highlight; where one can acclimatize, explore nearby peaks, or simply enjoy great views. Here, adventure and serenity go hand in hand. Dingboche is one of those memories that will etch your lifetime of voyages to Everest Base Camp.

Inclusion

What's included ?

  • Accommodation in Kathmandu on bed and breakfast basis as per the itinerary
  • City tour in Kathmandu with guide by private car
  • Entry fees when sightseeing in Kathmandu
  • National Park Trekking/Entry Permit
  • Trekkers’ Information Management System (TIMS) registration fee
  • Round trip / internal flights / overland transport / if needed / as per the itinerary
  • Accommodation in guest houses/lodges during the trek
  • Three meals (Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner) a day during the trek
  • Qualified and experienced trekking guide and porter services
  • Transportation, accommodation, meal allowance, equipment and insurance for trekking staff
  • All the official paper work and all the applicable government taxes
  • Airport transfers for internal flights
  • Sleeping bag, down jacket and rucksack if required
  • Airport pick-up on arrival and drop-off on departure 

What's not included ?

  • Meals other than breakfast when staying in hotels
  • Personal expenses and bar bills
  • Clients’ travel insurance
  • Tips and gratuities

Day to Day Itinerary

  • Day 01: Arrival in Kathmandu

    Upon your arrival in Kathmandu / warm welcome / transfer hotel / introductory briefing

  • Day 02: Kathmandu: sightseeing and trek preparation

    Most of the day is spent visiting the important historical and cultural sights of Kathmandu / late afternoon trek preparation

  • Day 03: Kathmandu – Lukla (40 min flight) – Phakding (2610m); 2-3 hour trek

    After an early morning flight to Lukla (2,840m). / trek starts / pass Chaurikharka village and make a descent towards the Dudhkosi Ghat (2,492m) / the trail follows the bank of the Dudhkosi River until Phakding (2,610m) overnight.

  • Day 04: Phakding – Namche Bazaar(3440m): 4-5 hour trekking

    Namche is the most prosperous and the largest town in the Khumbu Valley / a bazaar is held here every Saturday / meat, grains and vegetables, tennis shoes and trinkets hand woven aprons and Tibetan boots / Thamserku (6648m), Kwangde Ri (6187m) and Khumbila (5707m) surround the natural bowl that Namche rests in / halfway up the hill / a gap in the trees allows us to see Everest for the first time.

  • Day 05: Namche Bazaar: Rest day

    We take the day to acclimatise / off to allow our bodies to adjust to the rarefied atmosphere / side treks possible / or just relax around Namche.

  • Day 06: Namche – Thame (3820m): 4-5 hours

    Today we head to Thame / marvellous view of Kwangde Ri and the waterfalls that cascade off its flanks / The trail stays high up on the bank of the Bhote Khose / a yellow and white Rhododendron forest that comes into full bloom in early May / cross the river / good views down the valley / of Thamserku and Kusum Kangru (6369m) / before ascending through more Rhododendron forests to pasture lands in front of Thame. This village is the birthplace of Tenzing Norgay / the Sherpa who made the first ascent of Everest with Hillary in 1953 / The hour-long climb to the cliff side monastery is well worth the effort / from this point, trekkers can skirt above the village to climb across the ridge in order to view the route to the Nangpa La, a pass to Tibet frequently used by the Sherpas and their yaks during the monsoon / overnight

  • Day 07: Thame – Khumjung (3,780m): 5-6 hours

    We return back down the valley via Thamo, a hillside sanctuary, and then take a high trail that bypasses Namche and finally drops into Khumjung / this village is one of the most beautiful in Khumbu / The Himalayan Trust has a school here / as well as a medical post (for locals and trekkers) in nearby Khunde

  • Day 08: Khumjung-Tengboche(3860m): 4-5 hour

    The trail this morning descends to the Dudh Khosi(river) / There are spectacular views of Ama Dablam (6696m) and Kantega (6779m) Everest (8848m) and Lhotse (8501m). We cross the river at Phunki Thanga and climb through the afternoon amongst Rhododendron forest to the saddle at the top of the hill / right in front of us is Tengboche / the principal monastery of the Khumbu area / the views from here are unforgettable.

  • Day 09 : Tengboche – Rest/acclimatisation day.

    This is another catch-up day for our bodies / Nearby ridges offer the opportunity for a half-day hike to get close-up views of Ama Dablam / the monks usually give conducted tours around the monastery.

  • Day 10: Tengboche-Dingboche (4410m): 4-5 hours

    There’s a slight descent early today through lush forest / before a gradual climb up to the valleys highest year round settlement of Pangboche (3,860m) / continue ascending in the afternoon / through alpine meadows and yak herds / eventually reaching Dingboche.

  • Day 11 : Dingboche: Rest Day

    There are one of two hikes from here / you may choose / the shorter option ascends the hill immediately behind Dingboche / to drop steeply down to Periche. The Himalayan Rescue Association operates a medical post here and the western doctors conduct excellent seminars on Altitude Mountain Sickness (AMS) here most afternoons. The longer option is to trek up the Imja Tse valley towards Island Peak. The views of Lhotse, Ama Dablam and Cho Polu from here are outstanding. After a few hours the trekker terminus of Chukung is reached, and after a rest we return down the valley.

  • Day 12 : Dingboche-Lobuche(4910m): 5-6 hour

    Today is a climb to Duglha (4,620m) / from here there are stunning views of Tawachee and Cholatse (6440m) / the trail goes up to the Khumbu Glacier for an hour then left into the memorial area before reaching the village of Lobuche. (4,930m) / by this stage the effects of altitude will be kicking in and you can expect colder nights.

  • Day 13 : Lubuche-Gorak Shep(5140m): 2-3 hour

    The trail continues climb to Gorak Shep / overnight in Gorak Shep (5,140m).

  • Day 14 : Gorak Shep-Everest Base Camp- Gorakhshep: 4-5 hours

    Today we finally make Everest Base Camp (5,364m) walking through rocky and glacial trails / where climbers gather for summiting Everest. Continuing the trek we return to Gorakh Shep for overnight.

  • Day 15 : Gorakhshep to Pheriche (4240m): 3-4 hours

    In the morning hike to the famous viewing point of Kala Pattar (Black Rock) at 5,545m / this small peak offers the best views of Mt. Everest, Pumori and Ama Dablam you can get without climbing / back to Gorakhshep and trek on to Pheriche / the trail descends gradually down /accross small streams / fantastic views / rocky terrain until we reach Pheriche by the river / and overnight.

  • Day 16 : Pheriche-Pangboche, (3930m): 3-4 hours

    The trek to pangboche is a fairly gradual descent along the river and passed pine trees before a short climb up to Pangboche (3,930m), which lies on the bank of Imja Khola. overnight

  • Day 17 : Pangboche – Tengboche (3860m): Appros 2 hours

    Trek descends to reach Tyangboche (3860 m) in Khumbu. overnight

  • Day 18 : Tengboche- Namche Bazaar (3440m): 5-6 hours

    The walk from Tyangboche is mostly downhill on the main busy trail with a few steep climbs for an hour from the bridge at Phungitenga / near to Shanasha. The walk to Namche is very scenic on a long winding path. En route visit traditional villages of Khumjung and Khunde. There is an opportunity to visit one of its monasteries / the only monastery that has a Yeti Scalp / from Khumjung village another 30 minutes walk brings us to the village of Khunde /’ visit the Khunde Hospital funded by Sir Edmund Hillary Trust. After Khunde, a scenic and pleasant walk brings us to Namche

  • Day 19 : Namche Bazaar- Phakding (2610): 3-4 hours

    Today the trail steeply descends to the Hillary Suspension Bridge and then continues on an easy natural trail. overnight in Phakding (2,610m).

  • Day 20 : Phakding-Lukla (2840m): approx 3 hours

    Finally today the trail takes us back to Lukla (2,810m). On arrival in Lukla / time to relax overnight.

  • Day 21 : Lukla- Kathmandu

    After an early morning flight to Kathmandu, you will be received from the airport and taken to your hotel. Rest of the day is free for your shopping and relaxation.

  • Day 22: Free day relaxation and shopping in Kathmandu

  • Day 23: Departure day. Transfer to airport / flight to onward